Impact of Key Nutrients on Brain and Executive Function Development in Infants and Toddlers: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Executive function skills are an essential aspect of cognition and are influenced in early life by multiple factors.One of the significant factors that influence brain development is nutrition, which plays a specific role in the brain's developmental processes and functioning from fetal to adult age. Infants in their early life rely on breastmilk for nutrition. Knowledge of the composition of breast milk and the biochemical composition of the brain has led to the identification of critical nutrients needed for the brain's growth, development, and functioning. Key nutrients for brain development are those that, when deficient during the precise, sensitive periods of early brain development, could have long-term adverse effects on brain functioning. This narrative review highlights the importance of some key nutrients in early brain development and executive functions, including cognitive performances in infants and toddlers. Lipids are crucial for brain development. Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) and sphingomyelin are the key ingredients to influence cognitive performance potentially. Early development of executive function precursors in infants and toddlers is an essential foundation for executive functions outcomes in early childhood or adulthood. Evidence suggests that specific nutrients such as phospholipids, including sphingomyelin and LC-PUFAs (docosahexaenoic acid), are essential for developing higher-level cognitive functions.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Mothers attending Primary Healthcare Facilities in South-east Nigeria towards Prevention of Childhood Anaemia

“…Since most complex neural changes occur in the first two years of life, these years are crucial for the development of the infant's brain. Additionally, since the brain is sensitive to iron deficiency during infancy, iron deficiency during neurologic development may have long-term effects on cognitive and behavioural function (Ray, 2022). When a woman gradually starts introducing foods other than breast milk or formula to her newborn, this transitional phase is known as weaning.…”